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Mom Flees Iraq After Husband is Kidnapped

According to Refugees International, years after the US-led invasion, Iraq remains a deeply violent and divided society. Faced with one of the largest displacement and humanitarian crises in the world, Iraqi civilians are in urgent need of assistance. (Reuters Photo)

Khari’s* father was killed by Saddam Hussein. Her husband was kidnapped and is presumed dead. Young, pregnant and fearing for her life and the life of her children, she fled Iraq with her 5 year old daughter to Turkey.

After spending two difficult years as a refugee in Turkey, Khari learned that she was approved for resettlement in the United States. She was connected with the Lancaster Office of Lutheran Children and Family Service. Through our program, they are receiving help with housing, healthcare, and other critical services. Although Khari and her two daughters are safe here, her struggles are far from over.

Khari’s oldest daughter, now 7, was diagnosed with a rare disorder which requires blood transfusions every three weeks. The procedure takes 5 hours, and must be done at a hospital in Hershey. An LCFS staff member transports them, stays with them, and helps them navigate the complex healthcare system.

When you supportLCFS’ refugee program, you make the vital difference in the lives of courageous refugees like Khari. LCFS has an extraordinary opportunity to help more people like Khari, but we need your help! Our partners at Thrivent Financial are helping to expand our impact through a challenge grant. If we reach $10,000 in contributions by March 31st, Thrivent Financial will provide an extra $5,000 for the LCFS Refugee Program. We are currently at 40% of our goal, and we need your support to reach 100%!

Despite hardships, Khari looks ahead to her family’s future. She plans to attend college next year and would like to become a child care provider. “Khari is lucky, in a sense,” her case worker says, “She knows English, and has a high school education. She is very driven and is determined to make a good life for her children.”

Please donate today, to make a difference in more lives like Khari’s. Thank you in advance for your generosity.